Special Olympics Clubs – North West Tasmania is a sports club located in Devonport that is part of the Special Olympics network. The club aims to provide a range of sport, recreation, social, and health opportunities for people with an intellectual disability. Their goal is to help individuals with intellectual disabilities have fun, stay healthy, build self-esteem, demonstrate courage, and make friends.
Special Olympics Australia is part of a global movement that has been transforming the lives of people with intellectual disabilities for nearly 50 years. The movement was started by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, sister to US President John F. Kennedy. Special Olympics now supports over 5 million athletes in 177 countries.
In Australia, Special Olympics began in 1976 to provide opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities who were previously shut away in institutions. Despite improvements in Australia, the organisation continues to seek public support to ensure inclusivity and opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Special Olympics Clubs – North West Tasmania believes in the power of sport to create a better world, much like the Olympics and Paralympics. While the Olympics and Paralympics focus on elite athletes and receive significant awareness and funding, Special Olympics is a year-round programme for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This programme provides robust competition pathways, including World Games held every four years in both summer and winter sports.
An intellectual disability refers to difficulties in performing tasks generally considered basic, such as reading, handling money, or using public transport. However, this does not mean that individuals with intellectual disabilities cannot learn these tasks; they may just require different methods and more support. Special Olympics provides an opportunity for individuals with intellectual disabilities to showcase their hidden talents and abilities through sports.
Special Olympics Clubs – North West Tasmania is dedicated to increasing their reach and impact, as there are 850,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or autism in Australia, but only 3,000 athletes currently participating in Special Olympics activities. The club encourages people to support their cause through donations, volunteering, or participating in their programmes.
Overall, Special Olympics Clubs – North West Tasmania aims to provide individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to participate in sports, promoting inclusivity, personal achievement, and community involvement.